Just because he hasn't been filmed or someone reads statements on his behalf doesn't mean he is dead. Thanks to the MSM, he knows we have listened to his cell calls, and tracked him, and to his aides and tracked them. So he went low-tech: notes sent by donkey. he may not really be in a "cave", but living in a house somewhere.
A man with so much self importance, no way could remain out of the limelight this whole time..what is he a cowardly rat??....er nevermind.